Come sit with us. Lets talk!

We want to connect with you, and we want to do our PR island style ~ linking up, talking, laughing, eating and being together.

This event began as an idea proposed by Porobibi and Sione Teumohenga. They were considering ways in which we might be able to share with community about our process of creation. What have been our learnings, triumphs, lessons, values, ways of working towards creative and collective movement?

We will kick off with a Talanoa featuring some of the FAMILI collective members, followed by a delicious dinner prepared by Bussin T. After the dinner break we will be screening our short film, BLOODFIRE, written and directed by Sione Teumohenga and Bella Waru. This will be followed by an informal chat with the directors about the creative process. After that, we' will play some music and have a chill open space to hang in for a while. We are sure there will be much food for thought to be shared with kin.

What is a Talanoa?

Similar to yarning within Blakfulla culture, a Talanoa is a traditional word used across the Pacific to reflect a process of inclusive, participatory, and transparent dialogue. Talanoa provides opportunities to discuss knowledge grounded in Pacific values and principles of love, respect, humour and warmth. It is a format for inclusive, collaborative meetings and which encourages greater participation and where important contributions can be made.

This Talanoa will be led by Porobibi in conversation with Ripley Kavara, Bella Waru, Sione Teumohenga, Guy Faletolu, Lay Kabalan and Seth Suda.

Program

4.00 pm - Doors Open

5.00 pm - Talanoa begins

6.30 pm - Dinner

7.30 pm - Screening of BLOODFIRE and discussion with directors

8.00 pm - Chill time

9 pm - Close

Merch Drop

Due to popular demand we will be releasing a new merch drop at the event. First in, best dressed. Litch. (Literally)

Dinner by Bussin’ T

MENU

YASSA
Succulent chargrilled chicken pieces, stewed in a tangy, sweet, and savoury caramelised-onion sauce.
~ $20

SALATU NIEBE
A refreshing and zesty black-eyed bean salad.
~ $15

ADD ONS
~ Rice $2.50
~ Salatu Niebe (side serve) $5
~ Plantain $2.5
~ Cassava chips $2.5

DRINKS (tbc)
~ BISSAP 1L $35
~ BISSAP single glass $10

BUSSIN-T is an entirely self and community supported cooking operation launched only in 2025! We bring to you food from the heart, straight from our home kitchen to your tastebuds. Literally! Like going to a family cookout who have you leaving stomach full, smiling wide, and mind and heart at ease, BUSSIN-T is dedicated to more than just a tasty bite. We are dedicated to those hungry for good food and all the love, liberation and community that comes with it. Proudly serving and recreating traditional flavours of our peoples from Senegal, as well as some new creations, concoctions, and fusions of our own experimentation. We look forward to feeding you soon, keep it BUSSIN!

Accessibility

Both the South Building and the House are wheelchair accessible via lift. Wide corridors and accessible toilets are situated on each level. The grounds are entirely accessible via flat concrete paths and ramps. We will have a large air purifier operating on site. Kids are welcome.

Parking on site is restricted and as such there is no community parking on site. There are convenient on-site loading and unloading spaces if needed. There is easily accessible public car parking to the south on Dawson Street, across the road from the Brunswick Baths. Car parking in Woolworths car park (Albert or Phoenix Street entrance) for up to 90 minutes, after which it is paid

Balam Balam Place is located within a short walk from tram, bus and train stops.

No. 19 tram from Sydney Road and Glenlyon Road (250 metres)
506 bus from Sydney Road and Glenlyon Road (250 metres)
Upfield line from Brunswick Station (400 metres)

Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the sacred lands, seas and communities we exist among across this continent from Wurundjeri, Boonwurrung, Kaurna and Whadjuk Noongar. We pay deep respect to all elders past and present and those emerging. Sovereignty has never been ceded, treaties have never been signed. We stand in solidarity with mob fighting for justice and self-determination across the country. Balam Balam is located on Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung country.

Supporting DIY Spaces

This Talanoa is a DIY event. It is self funded by the artists in our collective. We mention this context in the hope that on the night you may reciprocate this energy. It takes a village to make this work. We will be taking donations, selling merch, food and drinks. Your support will have a direct impact on people to continue this work.

Banner Image by Peta Duncan and logo by Sione Teumohenga

Contact the host of FAMILI presents: A Talanoa